TechCrunch Industry News ‘ONE RULE’: Trump says he’ll sign an EO blocking state AI laws despite bipartisan pushback; also, Paramount's hostile bid for WBD
Dec 8, 2025
Trump plans a sweeping executive order to prevent states from enacting their own AI regulations, stirring up bipartisan dissent. Meanwhile, Paramount has launched a staggering $108.4 billion hostile bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, just days after the latter's agreement to be acquired by Netflix. This bold move raises questions about financing and potential antitrust issues. As tech leaders voice concerns about federal intervention, state advocates push back, highlighting the complexity of AI regulation and corporate mergers.
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White House Pushes To Preempt State AI Rules
- Trump plans an executive order to preempt state AI laws and create a litigation task force to challenge them in court.
- The order would push federal agencies to set national standards and centralize AI policy under SACS influence.
State-Level AI Laws Are Filling A Federal Gap
- States like California and Tennessee have enacted AI laws addressing transparency and deepfakes amid federal inaction.
- State AGs and lawmakers warn federal preemption could derail protections for children, workers, and consumers.
Tech Industry Argues Uniform Rules Protect Competitiveness
- Silicon Valley leaders argue patchwork state rules would stifle innovation and hurt U.S. competitiveness with China.
- Tech lobbying sees federal uniformity as essential to accelerate AI development.